Sale of Blade’s Passenger Operations to Joby Set To Boost Medical Division | Aviation International News

Charter & Fractional

Sale of Blade’s Pax Ops Set To Boost Medical Division

Medical flight revenues are growing faster than passenger operations

Blade Air Mobility helicopter — Blade Air Mobility’s fleet of 10 helicopters could be increased as part of the new standalone Strata Critical Medical business. © AIN

By Charles Alcock • Managing Editor

August 5, 2025

The $125 million sale of Blade Air Mobility’s passenger operations to eVTOL aircraft manufacturer Joby, announced on Monday, will release capital needed to drive growth in its medical flight services unit, the group’s leadership team said on Tuesday while announcing second-quarter financial results that showed further progress in cutting net losses. To be rebranded Strata Critical Medical, the medical division plans to increase its current fleet of 10 helicopters with “low single-digit orders” over the next year or two, according to its CFO, Will Heyburn.

Blade CEO Rob Wiesenthal, who will run this part of Joby’s business when the transaction is complete, told analysts that the divestiture delivers the best long-term value for all stakeholders, including investors, customers, and employees. “It will unlock the potential of both businesses,” he said, acknowledging that investors have devalued Blade’s passenger operations, blocking investment in the growing medical operations to protect earnings.

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